Body language explained

PART 6: THE MOUTH

Dogs use their mouths to communicate almost as much as we do, but the meaning of their expressions isn’t always easy for us, as humans, to work out. As some mouth movements align with those we make and others don’t, it is just simpler to learn what all dog mouth movements mean.

Relaxed – a relaxed dog will generally hold their jaws slightly open or gently closed, making them look as if they are smiling.

Anxious – when dogs are anxious, they grit their teeth, and their lips look tight.

Distressed – if a dog is distressed, they might lick their lips or yawn. Submissive – if a dog bares their teeth by pulling up their top lip, and the rest of their body posture is relaxed, it is likely they are behaving submissively.

Threatened/aggressive – if a dog is pulling up the sides of their mouth or wrinkling their nose to reveal their teeth, they are probably feeling threatened. When their lips go all the way back, and their mouth opens, it can signify that they’ve reached breaking point and are about to bite.

SOUTH AFRICA’S PREMIER EQUESTRIAN MAGAZINE

SOUTH AFRICA’S PREMIER EQUESTRIAN MAGAZINE DIGITAL ISSUE 160A | 2022

DIGITAL ISSUE 159C | 2022

SOUTH AFRICA’S PREMIER EQUESTRIAN MAGAZINE DIGITAL ISSUE 160A | 2022